When it comes to cooking game hens, a Crock Pot is an excellent choice, as it allows for tender and flavorful results with minimal effort. This recipe for Crock Pot game hens is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home. The slow cooking process ensures that the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender, while the blend of herbs and spices adds a delicious aroma and flavor.
Key Points
- Cooking game hens in a Crock Pot results in tender and juicy meat
- A blend of herbs and spices, including thyme, rosemary, and garlic, adds flavor to the dish
- The recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort
- Cooking time is approximately 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Serve with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad
Ingredients and Preparation
To prepare this delicious Crock Pot game hens recipe, you will need the following ingredients: 2 game hens (about 1-1.5 pounds each), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon salt, 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1⁄2 teaspoon paprika. You can also add other spices or herbs to taste, such as onion powder, dried oregano, or lemon zest.
Cooking Instructions
Begin by rinsing the game hens and patting them dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Rub the mixture all over the game hens, making sure to coat them evenly. Place the game hens in the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The internal temperature of the game hens should reach 165°F (74°C) when they are cooked through.
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 165°F (74°C) | 6-8 hours |
| High | 165°F (74°C) | 3-4 hours |
Flavor Variations and Serving Suggestions
One of the benefits of this Crock Pot game hens recipe is that it can be easily customized to suit your tastes. For example, you can add some lemon juice or zest to the game hens for a bright, citrusy flavor, or try using different herbs and spices, such as cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika. The game hens can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also try serving them with some warm bread or over a bed of rice or quinoa.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this Crock Pot game hens recipe (assuming 2 servings) contains approximately 420 calories, 24g of fat, 35g of protein, and 10g of carbohydrates. The game hens are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, niacin, and phosphorus.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
Can I cook the game hens on high for a shorter amount of time?
+Yes, you can cook the game hens on high for 3-4 hours, but keep in mind that the meat may not be as tender as it would be if cooked on low for 6-8 hours.
Can I add other ingredients to the Crock Pot with the game hens?
+Yes, you can add other ingredients, such as potatoes, carrots, or onions, to the Crock Pot with the game hens. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.
How do I know if the game hens are cooked through?
+The internal temperature of the game hens should reach 165°F (74°C) when they are cooked through. You can check the temperature by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh.
This Crock Pot game hens recipe is a delicious and easy way to prepare a special meal. With its tender and flavorful results, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion. The slow cooking process ensures that the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender, while the blend of herbs and spices adds a delicious aroma and flavor. Try it tonight and enjoy the compliments from your family and friends!
